“I always begin working with the book, the words, the most important thing.” A lifelong Tolkien enthusiast, Shore revisits the books almost daily, and he often plotted the music as he read. That literary connection, in addition to his deep relationship with nature, helped create the musical fabric that has become so synonymous with Jackson’s films. “I just try to capture the spirit of each scene,” he explains.

That about says it all! "Choosing Trust over Doubt gets me burned once in a while, but I'd rather be singed than hardened." ¯ Victoria Monfort

Great video (shot by his wife!). Makes me very impatient for the "appendices" on the Extended Editions. When will those come out anyway (assuming The Hobbit Trilogy gets the extended treatment)? Didn't they come out before christmas the same year as the theatrical cuts? I think so, but can't quite remember.

I've a modest musical background vocally. I couldn't imagine having to create this music as quickly as he has to do, and then they all assemble and just have to be able to absorb and perform with no lengthy rehearsal. It's amazing.

In a world with computers and machines slowly supplanting man, music like this proudly puts on display man's genius and soul. Arthur: What manner of man are you that can summon up fire without flint or tinder? Tim: I... am an enchanter. Arthur: By what name are you known? Tim: There are some who call me... 'Tim'...? Arthur: ...greetings, Tim the Enchanter.